Program Overview
Learn about the criminal justice system and the causes of crime. Explore disciplines such as policing, courts and corrections, or special interest topics such as forensics or legal advocacy. Prepare for a variety of career paths through high-quality classroom and experiential learning opportunities.
The B.A. in Criminology and Criminal Justice offers career-focused course clusters that give students optional focus points within the degree, personalizing their educational experience.
In addition to earning the B.A. from the University of Maryland, graduates acquire an excellent foundation for careers in criminal justice, government, politics, public policy and activism, and security and investigation.
The B.A. in Criminology and Criminal Justice is offered through the University’s College of Behavioral and Social Sciences (BSOS), which educates and inspires the next generation of students by increasing their understanding of and pursuing innovative solutions to the issues facing our global community. Maryland BSOS – Be the Solution to the World’s Great Challenges.
Enrollment & Application Deadlines
Admission Requirements
- Transfer admission only
- Preferred GPA of 2.5 or higher
- An A.A. degree or at least 45 transferable college credits
- Completion of fundamental college writing and mathematics
- Completion of prerequisite courses
- Schedule an appointment before applying to review transfer credits & degree requirements
Career Outcome & Educational Advancement
- Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officer
- Detective or Criminal Investigator
- Probation Officer or Correctional Treatment Specialist
- Correctional Officer or Jailer
- Criminal Justice or Intelligence Analyst
- Victim Advocate or Victim Services Specialist
- Compliance Officer
- Paralegal or Legal Assistant
- Local, state, and federal government
- Justice, Public Order, and Safety Activities
- Legal Services
- Social Assistance
- Investigation and Security Services
- Nonprofit advocacy and community organizations
- Juris Doctor
- Master of Public Policy
- Master of Social Work (Offered at USG through UMB)
- Doctor of Public Administration (Offered at USG through UB)
- M.S. in Cybersecurity (Offered at USG through UMBC)
Program Information
Prospective Students
How to Apply
Students entering the CCJS program at Shady Grove will have completed their freshman and sophomore years at a community college or accredited 4-year institution. Our program is designed to be completed in two years of continuous full-time enrollment. Part-time study is welcomed. Admissions for University of Maryland Shady Grove undergraduate programs is through the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Start your journey to becoming a Terp!